G
REEN BAY, Wis. - A new scam targeting property owners is on the rise, with realtors and title companies sounding the alarm. The FBI reports a 500% increase in this type of real estate crime over the past few years.

    Scammers are posing as property owners to sell land or homes they don't own. They forge documents and notary credentials to carry out their scheme. A northeast Wisconsin property owner received multiple letters from across the country with offers to buy her land, leaving her concerned about potential theft.

    Brown County Register of Deeds Cheryl Berken warns that unsuspecting buyers are purchasing properties and building on them without realizing they're buying stolen land. Scott Moore with Property Fraud Alert notes that homeowner losses have doubled in the past two years.

    A property fraud alert can be a first line of defense against this type of crime. On PropertyFraudAlert.com, homeowners can sign up for free to monitor their property for possible fraudulent recordings. This early warning system provides crucial time to prevent or mitigate damage.

    Scammers often target vacant land or properties without loans or mortgages, which may not receive regular attention from owners. Buyers should be cautious if a deal seems too good to be true and the seller won't meet in person. Contact your local county for more information on how to protect yourself against this type of real estate fraud.